Despite the Odds

I’ve had plenty of moments when I felt like I wasn’t the “right” fit for something, whether it was a job, a hobby, a relationship, or a dream. But more often than not, when I’ve said yes to those opportunities, they’ve led me somewhere meaningful. It’s rarely been a perfect journey, but it’s one I’m grateful for, yes, even the painful moments.

Right out of college, I surprised even myself by accepting a job at a mapping company. It allowed me to move from Central Illinois to Chicagoland, and I wanted to be in a big city. My dad laughed when he heard I got that job because I never wanted him to tell me east or west. I always wanted him to say left or right and use landmarks instead. Even so, the company quickly realized I was good with people and moved me into management and eventually into an intern training role. The company was an old boys club, which made working there difficult and was why I ultimately left. Still, I made great friendships that are still part of my life, and learned how to handle difficult situations. Afterward, I took a job that moved me to Chicago, a city I yearned to live in, and over time, that led me to create Positive Focus and step into the work I now love.

I also chose to take up sailing and even racing, despite knowing I wasn’t the best at math or angles, which are essential in sailing. Being vertically challenged and not physically strong compared to some bigger guys made me doubt myself, but my love for being on the water was bigger than my fear of fitting in. I still had a wonderful time and sailed for many years. These experiences taught me that success and happiness don’t require perfection. Sometimes, it’s about showing up, doing your best, and being open to things working out in your favor.

When I look back on those moments, I realize how easy it would have been to say no. Letting fear or self-doubt keep me where I was would have been simpler. But I said yes anyway. It was not about being the best or getting it perfect. It was about showing up, growing, and choosing happiness even when the odds did not seem in my favor.

Moving forward, I invite you to embrace your own journey despite the odds by:

  • Recognizing your strengths, even if they don’t seem to fit the traditional mold for success.
  • Staying open to new opportunities that might seem outside your comfort zone.
  • Focusing on progress, not perfection celebrate every small win.
  • Finding gratitude in the hard places, as when you are willing to look, you will find it.
  • Creating relationships and support systems that lift you up through challenges.

Life rarely follows a perfect plan, but by moving forward with courage and kindness toward yourself, you can create a life you love, just as I continue to do for my community and myself.

If you want support navigating your path despite the odds, I’m here to help. Together, we can uncover your strengths and design a life full of purpose and joy.

Affirmation:

I am strong and capable.

Words to Love By:

Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect. – Alan Cohen

You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts. – Winston Churchill

Words to Love By:

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